Chrysler to release hybrid version of its new 300

The news was confirmed by Chrysler's CEO Sergio Marchionne at the 300's launch at the recent Detroit Motor Show. "We will offer a hybrid variant of the 300 equipped with an eight-speed automatic in 2013", Marchionne said.

Chrysler will also launch the 300 as the Lancia Thema in Europe, with the car expected to be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, along with three other re-branded Chrysler models. The Lancia version will also get a hybrid model, along with other eco-friendly technology.

According to Automotive News Europe, Chrysler's hybrid system is expected to share several components including the control software with a similar project that is currently being developed by Maserati for the next generation Quattroporte sports sedan, while the 8-speed automatic gearbox will be sourced from German supplier ZF.

Chrysler had plans originally for a series of hybrid cars, developed together with former partners DaimlerChrysler, but those plans were scrapped when Chrysler went into bankruptcy in2009. The latest news indicates that Chrysler, under the ownership of Fiat, is ready to return to making hybrid vehicles.